Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), April 30: Maguni Charan Kuanr, a celebrated puppeteer and recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri award, has been admitted to the Keonjhar District Headquarter Hospital on Tuesday.
According to reports, Kuanr was rushed to the hospital after experiencing discomfort due to the oppressive humidity prevailing in the region.
This recent hospitalization follows an earlier incident on April 2 when he was admitted to KIMS Hospital in Bhubaneswar after his health deteriorated.
Kuanr, born in 1937 into a family of traditional puppeteers in Keonjhar, has earned accolades for his exceptional contributions to the field of puppetry. His remarkable talent was recognized with the Padma Shri award bestowed upon him by President Droupadi Murmu in 2023.
His artistic endeavors have garnered attention not only within India but also internationally, with various renowned organizations documenting his work. Additionally, Kuanr has been honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for his significant contributions to traditional puppetry in the state.
Inspired by his father Baishnab Charan Kuanr, Maguni Charan Kuanr has dedicated himself to the art of puppetry, excelling in his craft and expanding the reach of Kandhei Nach beyond the borders of Odisha. He has established his own puppet troupe in Keonjhar, where he serves as the creator of puppets, costume designer, and storyteller for the performances.
Despite facing personal hardships, including the loss of both his sons, Kuanr’s passion for puppetry remains undiminished, and his enduring commitment to his art continues to inspire audiences both locally and globally.
